A nurse is reinforcing teaching a client who has peptic ulcer disease and is starting therapy with sucralfate. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?

Sucralfate is a medication used to treat peptic ulcers by forming a protective coating on the stomach lining. It should be taken on an empty stomach, as food can interfere with its absorption and effectiveness. One hour before breakfast and the evening meal is the correct timing for administering sucralfate, allowing for an empty stomach before meals.

At the time the client takes a proton pump inhibitor: Proton pump inhibitors are a different class of medications used to reduce stomach acid production. It is recommended to administer sucralfate separately, as it works differently and has different administration requirements.

Thirty minutes after breakfast and the evening meal: Administering sucralfate after meals is not ideal, as it may not provide the desired therapeutic effect on an empty stomach.

The time the client takes an antacid: Antacids are also different from sucralfate, and they can interfere with its absorption. It is generally recommended to administer sucralfate separately from antacids.

Sucralfate is a medication commonly used in the treatment of peptic ulcer disease. It works by forming a protective barrier over the ulcer site, providing a physical barrier against gastric acid, and promoting the healing process. When teaching a client about sucralfate, it is important to provide instructions regarding its proper administration.

One of the key instructions is to take sucralfate 1 hour before meals. This timing allows the medication to form a protective coating in the stomach before food is ingested. Taking sucralfate on an empty stomach enhances its effectiveness in protecting the ulcer and promoting healing.

"Take the medication with an antacid" - Sucralfate should not be taken with an antacid. Antacids can interfere with the protective mechanism of sucralfate by neutralizing stomach acid, which is necessary for sucralfate to bind and form a protective coating. It is recommended to wait at least 30 minutes to 1 hour after taking sucralfate before taking an antacid.

"Take as needed for pain relief" - Sucralfate is not typically used for immediate pain relief in peptic ulcer disease. It is primarily used for its protective and healing properties. Pain relief is

usually addressed with other medications, such as antacids, acid-reducing medications, or pain medications as prescribed by a healthcare provider.

"Store the medication in the refrigerator" - Sucralfate does not require refrigeration. It should be stored at room temperature, away from excessive heat or moisture, as per the specific instructions provided by the manufacturer or healthcare provider.